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Chapter Text

After around seven years of being dragged along by Fajra, Emmet learned two big don’ts— don’t let Fajra drive and don’t let Fajra handle negotiations solo. It wasn't like he did much better when it came to socializing. Most often a discussion would—unintentionally—end with a passive-aggressive comment. His blunt remarks weren’t good for business. Yet it was one thing for Emmet to provoke their clients, it was another for the clients to provoke Fajra. 

“You know the drill, just let me do the talkin’ here,” Fajra had reminded her partner while her hand rested on the old battered door handle. “No weird greetings, don't point out whatever weird lil’ tattoo or mark you see on the guys’ face, or the ugly picture that's probably his mam or someon’— better yet, how about say nothin’ at all?”

She had shot him a look as if inviting him to protest, but instead he simply replied with a sly smile, “As you wish.”

“Nuh-uh, don’t smile like that. I’m serious, Em. We have an agreement, but you…”

Fajra held up her hand to Emmet’s face as if trying to grasp something with all her might before spitting out, “Keep your inside thoughts inside, that’s all I’m saying.”

That was all well and good— if only Fajra could do the same. Fajra excelled at misdirecting outsiders from her motives, but misdirecting her feelings was another dilemma entirely. Now as the two stood before the grizzled manager of the dimly lit antique store, Emmet could already see Fajra’s facade slipping away as she tapped her fingers with great annoyance on the countertop. The manager glanced at her every so often as he inspected the items presented, but didn’t break under her pressure.    

“I’ll give ya… about a thousand for this one.”

The store manager tapped one of the TMs, only for Fajra to scoff and push Emmet aside from the counter. She slammed both hands on the table as she leered at the manager, “A thousand? Don’ get smart with me, I know you sold this for seven thousand last week! At least pretend to play fair. Suppose you’ll say these ones are worth even less now?”

Fajra gestured to the other TMs they managed to collect. They weren’t exactly mint condition. Dusty and scratched, he suspected they hadn’t been touched in many decades. 

“We tested these ourselves,” Emmet offered, placing a firm hand on Fajra’s shoulder as if to pull her back. “They still work, if that’s your concern. They may not have the aesthetic appeal, but ultimately it's about their function.” 

The manager still had a frown on his face. His eyes lingered around the old store filled with second-hand items. It was a dark and dreary store, as if all the memories that the items once left held haunted the place with a gloomy presence. Emmet noted that his gaze steadied on the single television set placed toward the door. Even though the power was off, Emmet could tell the owner’s fear remained intact.

“Look, I’ll shoot straight with ya,” the manager began at last with a heavy sigh, “One of my other suppliers brought me TMs and it turned out they were stolen from League property. The authorities came knocking and I'm fortunate they didn't shut my whole business down. Haven’t seen the guy since then. I can give you a little money for the trouble, but unless you can prove these were legally acquired, I’m going to treat them as damaged goods.” 

Before Fajra opened her mouth, Emmet quickly intervened, “Understandable— we’ll need a minute to discuss. Apologies for the delay.”

“It’s a load of Bouffalant crap!” Fajra spat immediately once Emmet pulled her away from the counter. “He’s trying to cheat us out of our items! I’ve seen it before, you can’t possibly think—“

I can’t take that track with you, Fajra. You and I both know where those TMs came from. You know full well if we get caught, we will be in serious trouble. Una and I would be in serious trouble. Take the hush money.” 

He knew he screwed up when Fajra’s face became about as red as her flame colored hair. “I am not leaving with a measly thousand. Those blasted discs took too long to get for such little reward! We need the money to fix that stupid handcar we busted just getting the loot!”

“You busted the handcar. I am a lot of things, but I am at least a good driver.”

The front door jingled as someone entered the store, and both Emmet and Fajra immediately fell quiet. A young man and woman strided inside and their own eyes landed on the two other customers before heading to the counter. Their clothes were relatively ordinary of the scrawny Pokémon trainers in the area, although he noted that each wore a gold band around one of their ankles. Emmet tipped his head a little farther down over his face while Fajra shot a nasty glare back at the newcomers before whispering underneath her breath, “Great, just what we needed, an audience.” 

The store manager pushed aside the TMs and other trinkets Fajra provided while greeting the couple with a weary smile. “Ah, come to collect your purchase, I see? I’ve been holding it for some time—“

“Yes, yes,” the man began with a wave of his hand. “We appreciate you holding onto it. Mr. Stotle would’ve come to take it himself, but he couldn’t find the time.”

Something bumped against Emmet’s leg, and upon peering down he found Liepard brushing up beside him. His Liepard often wandered around the establishment while Emmet and Fajra conducted business, watching for any signs of a threat. Her glowing eyes were now fixed on the woman, who immediately turned her stare away upon Liepard’s appearance. A light growl began to vibrate from the Pokémon’s throat.

“Fajra, I don't think you can win this,” Emmet whispered while placing a hand on Liepard’s head. “We’ll find another buyer, please—”

His voice was drowned as the store manager pulled out a small box and opened it for the couple while saying skeptically, “Here you are! Hopefully this will be sufficient for Mr. Sto—“

“It’s perfectly fine, sir,” the man interrupted as the manager hurriedly closed the box and pushed it under the counter. He was not fast enough, for Emmet caught a glimpse of a polished, spherical stone the color of obsidian. He managed to see the three indents pressed in the shape of a triangle before the box clamped shut. 

Emmet’s body had never reacted to anything so strongly in years. His heart began to hammer against his chest at the sight of it. His surroundings became blurred, but his eyes could only focus on the stone. A numbing sensation of white noise engulfed his ears, leaving a ringing echo in his very soul. Something stirred within him, dislodging images that had long since passed and buried. One stood out among the rest— a man adorning a black coat so similar to his own, his back facing Emmet. It wasn’t until the man turned that Emmet felt an ice pick stick through his heart. 

The man had his face. 

Before he could even begin to comprehend the sight, it was as if the world zoomed in beyond the man in black, revealing nothing but void, lonely and abyssal. Yet from the darkness shone two red lights, slowly dimming before a flash of electric blue light burst like a dying star.

“Em!”

A light but forceful punch to the arm swiftly broke through his thoughts, causing him to recoil and jerk his hand to the spot Fajra hit. While Fajra still had her eyes narrowed in frustration, her lips formed a frown he had not seen in awhile. 

“You… you alrigh?” Fajra asked, the usual sharp edge in her voice dulled. “You look like you’ve seen a ghost. Are you sick or… somethin’?”

His heart beat rapidly against his chest before turning swiftly to Fajra and whispering, “What I’m about to ask you is a one time occurrence. No questions asked until afterwards.”

Fajra’s eyes widened, but her disapproving frown churned upward into a sly smile. “Consider my interest piqued.”

“I want to initiate Protocol Thirty-Eight.”

Any frustration Fajra had with her partner seemed to vanish, replaced with an unnatural grittiness. Her smile broadened as told Emmet with a slight flick of his shoulder, “Protocol thirty-eight? The Protocol Thirty-Eight? Does this, perhaps, mean that you’ve changed your mind about… unlawful acquisition?”

“No, but—“

“Never mind— you can spill the deets later. Let’s get the wheels movin’.”

Fajra didn't miss a beat as she strolled back to the counter, a disapproving scowl reappearing on her face as she laid eyes on the manager. The pair with the stone had opened up a case to hold the box securely when Fajra spoke loudly, “You know what? Fine. We won't be doing business with you today. We’ll take our goods elsewhere. It's about time, really— you hike up your prices just so you can get rid of the crappy rip-offs for some sort of profit.”

She then turned to the woman and remarked snidely, “Might want to rethink shoppin’ here. The guy will do anything to make a quick buck.”

The manager’s face grew red at Fajra’s words, giving the other customers a quick glance before remarking hurriedly, “Ma’am, I know you're frustrated and I hear ya, but—”

Fajra had already done her part. The seeds of doubt sank into their targets as the woman glanced down at the box within the case. Her partner didn’t seem as convinced by Fajra’s claims, but merely stopped to watch the spectacle. 

Emmet made a quick gesture to Liepard with his hands, signing to her in motions that only she would understand. Liepard gave a curt nod before brushing past her trainer and dipping behind the counter while the owner was distracted. 

Seizing his chance, Emmet moved to the side of the other customers and remarked in a cheery air, “She is right— best be careful what you get from the Thievul’s hole.”

He leaned in a little closer to the man and continued in a low voice, “Ever think where he gets these items? Just last week one of his sellers was arrested for selling League property. I would be verrrry cautious with your purchase.”

His eyes met with the man’s, and he seemed to falter under Emmet’s knowing smile. He could almost see the gears in his head turning while his gaze narrowed suspiciously. It didn't last as the manager slammed his hands on the counter and retorted with frustration. “That’s enough! Get out of my shop before I call security! And don't bother coming back here, scavengers!”

Neither of them needed to be told a second time. Fajra exchanged a dirty look with the manager as she threw her arms around their items before storming to the door with an obnoxious whip of her fiery orange hair. Emmet waited for Liepard to slink back into view, brushing against his side with a low purr. 

The manager’s apologies were cut off as the door swung shut behind the two. Neither looked back as they were greeted by the streets of New Straiton City. There was no dark corner as the streets were ambushed with light from every screen, window, and billboard. It was late in the afternoon, and now the streets were swarming with men and women returning from work. 

“Sooo, don’ hold out on me,” Fajra began as Emmet withdrew the small withered box from his coat pocket. “What is it that made you throw away seven years worth of integrity?” 

Emmet glanced around to make sure none of the passerbys or the kiosks’s Minccino mascot was within listening range, he opened it enough for Fajra to peer inside. The obsidian sphere that lay within proved true to Liepard’s skills at thievery. His heart began to pound faster at the sight of it and his hand shook as he took a hand and pressed his finger to one of the indents. He didn't have the same visions as before, but his body trembled now that he was so close.

“This better be some rock because if we just lost revenue for a cheap— Em?”

Fajra’s criticism faltered as she noticed his shaking hand. She snatched his hand away from the rock, and without warning, jerked his glove off. Her eyes widened at the touch.

“You really are sick, aren't you?” She questioned, but her voice turned soft and concerned. “How long have you felt off? My gosh, what if this is radioactive—”

“Get back!” Emmet snapped as Fajra reached out to take the box away. She immediately recoiled, but a new expression replaced her concern. He had never seen her look at him with such fear. Even Liepard backed up, pushing against Fajra as if trying to shield her from him. Even now, the trembling ceased as soon as she clamped the box shut. All his symptoms, even his rage, had snapped away like the stone from his sight.

Emmet stepped back, still gripping the box in his hand as if it were his lifeline. 

“I… am sorry,” he spoke earnestly. “I don't… I don't know why I did that. I don't know how to explain it…”

Fajra didn't speak. Her shoulders relaxed slightly as she took a step closer to Emmet. “Em, did you remember something?”

The question hadn’t been asked in years. Life had simply gone on, but now that his friend watched him with worry, he realized he had returned to the horrible darkness he had found himself in years before. Only this time, he had something to lose. 

“This may sound silly,” he admitted. “But… I know this stone. When I'm around it, I realize there has been something missing. A part of me that's gone… and with this stone, it’s in reach, but I can't…”

His words faltered as Fajra reached to take his hand again. She kept his hand in between both of hers and told him with a small, but genuine smile, “You, my friend, are silly… but just because you're silly doesn't mean your feelings are too. Your situation is odd, and I understand that.”

He looked back at Fajra. “Thank you… I just can’t let him be separated from me again.”

Him. Even Emmet couldn't quite understand why he chose to include that one simple pronoun. Fajra’s eyebrow raised skeptically at its inclusion. It didn't seem to matter though as she pried her gaze from his to glance around at their surroundings. It was getting busier, and based on the overhead announcements flooding the street, a celebration was about to take place. 

“We can talk more later,” Fajra insisted, now pushing his hand back to his side. “Better to talk this out in a place that lacks all these ears. If you won't let me take the box, at least don’t open it again… for now. Whatever the rock is, your body is reacting to it, and I'm not ruling out radiation.”

She paused. “Do you need to go back to the handcar right away or—”

“No,” he replied promptly as he stuffed the box back in his pocket. “I’ll be fine. But I… I can acquire Una while you go on ahead. Where did you leave her again?”

Chapter Text

A shrill squeal bounced off the concrete walls of the make-shift fight ring as Sliver dug its fangs into the writhing Dottler’s shell. The shriek was so high that all the youngsters gathered to watch the fight covered their ears with their fists. The shriek didn't deter the Purrloin as it dug its fangs deeper into the shell, vibrant purple ooze spilling from its teeth.

“Don’t panic!”  Dottler’s trainer shouted from across the ring, although he failed to hide his own panic. “Get ‘em with Struggle Bug!”

“Release it!” Una shouted to her own Pokémon. “Stand your ground, Sliver!” 

Sliver relinquished its prey upon command just as the Dottler wrapped itself in green energy. Sliver managed to dart back in the direction of its trainer just as the aura launched from around the wounded Dottler towards its assailant. Dust and trash from the alleyway was kicked up and thrown around by the sudden burst, causing a fit of coughs to rise from the awestruck audience. Una pulled her cap down so its visor protected her eyes. She lost sight of her Pokémon in the cloud that rose from the field.

When the dust cleared, the field revealed the results of the match. The Dottler had been turned back on its shell, limp from exhaustion as purple ooze leaked off. Sliver was crumpled towards the edge of the ring, but once the cloud completely dispersed, its glowing eyes reappeared on the panel covering its face. A sound like a vibrating purr escaped the Pokémon throat as it struggled to its feet, shaking off the bits of grime that attached to its shiny plates. 

Una barely acknowledged the shout of frustration from her opponent as she rushed to her own Pokémon. She swept up her partner and  with a broad smile encouraged him, “I knew you could do it!”

She then lowered her voice and added with a smirk, “Way to show ‘em who really runs these streets.”

Yet before she could even get back to her feet, the defeated Dottler was shoved under her nose while her opponent spat furiously, “You didn't win squat, look!”

The boy gestured to the puncture wounds from Sliver’s Poison Fang. Una stared blankly before blurting, “Yeah, and?”

“Purrloins can’t learn Poison moves!” he insisted. “They shouldn't resist Bug Types either!”

The other young kids in the alley murmured together, but Una continued to smile at their confounded faces. 

“That's not cheating, you're just uneducated,” she replied as her Purrloin purred in agreement. “Sliver is Steel and Poison— also, the OG Purrloins could learn Poison Type moves. Maybe look up from your game console every now and then and have a real battle instead of stupid simulations. You still owe me the money.”

Una held out her hand expectantly, waiting for him to hand over her rightful reward. The boy’s expression displayed one of aghast, but quickly shook his head. “No. I don't owe you squat. Neo Variants shouldn't be allowed!”

“Yeah they are!” one of the other kids, a young girl about seven or eight, chimed while raising her hand from the sidelines. “What else are we gonna use? There’s no real Pokémon we can use!”

Una continued to give her unnerving smile as she took a step toward her opponent. “Let me fill you in since you’re clearly new to the sport. Any Pokémon you bring goes as long as it doesn’t exceed the level requirements. You’d be surprised how many people in Straiton only use Neo Variants. Can’t use biological Pokémon when they’re all too scared to come near the cities. Also…” 

She took another step forward. “There’s a lot of trash talkers here, but not one of them has beat me yet— so who’s going to tell me I’m wrong? You? Because apparently you can only win when Pokémon play by your rules. So what’s it going to be, eh?”

The boy gritted his teeth but refused to back down. She at least respected his ability to stand up to her; no one had done that in a while. 

“Who died and made you boss?” He finally blurted out.

“I’m not the boss, I’m just usually right,” Una teased, provoking a small gasp from the younger children present. “This is how Pokémon battles work.”

Joey gritted his teeth before finally digging into his pocket and shoving a few crumpled papers into Una’s waiting hands. She dared to think that was the end of it, but his fist said otherwise. She didn’t expect him to pack such a punch as he swung his fist into her stomach. The wind was knocked straight out of her lungs as she fell back to her knees, wheezing for air. A chorus of gasps and screams from the other kids echoed around the area. Her rage could only see her opponent. Her gut reacted by immediately kicking out her leg and slamming right into the boy’s kneecap. Joey howled in response, but Una was quick in launching herself toward him. A mix of pain and fury filled her veins, ignoring all reason. 

A gloved hand grabbed her outstretched arm and yanked it forcefully away from Joey’s face. To her horror, she saw a flash of a long, off-white coat and a familiar but stern voice order, “Let it go, Una.”

Emmet’s eyes seemed to illuminate from beneath the rim of his cap while he still gripped her clenched fist. She still clutched the crumbled paper as if it were a lifeline. Under his terrifying gaze, she opened her palm and exposed her winnings. Her guardian promptly took the money and held it curtly for Joey to take back.

“I am Em,” Emmet exclaimed earnestly as Joey fearful snatched back his money, but Emmet’s voice had a sharp point to his tone. “I am not against drop kicking children. Every second you’re not running, I’ll be a few steps closer behind you.”

The kids, even Joey let out frightened screams and stormed off. Sliver’s threatening hisses were drowned by a shrill growl and the patter of pawsteps as the silhouette of Liepard darted from the shadows to chase the children. It would've been humorous to watch the kids barrel over each other in an attempt to flee the scene if it weren’t for the amount of trouble now hanging over Una’s head. As Emmet released her arm, she realized he stooped down next to her to examine her injuries. She couldn’t be bothered by her own injuries, but his rare frown spoke volumes.

“Do you require medical attention?” Emmet asked in a direct tone, his eyes landing on her arm crossed over her stomach.

“I… I’m okay,” Una began sheepishly as she pulled her hat over her face to avoid eye contact. “I’m sorry, I didn’t—“

“You told me you stopped fighting for money.” Emmet continued pointedly. She still felt his gaze drilling into her forehead. “Why did you continue? Why did you lie to me?”

“I…” she paused. Any confidence that swelled inside her during battle had vanished. “I’m sorry… I wanted to help with money. I know you guys don’t think it’s safe for me to go on missions, but I’m ready! I promise I am! Sliver is strong, and we can help you fight against the enforcers!”

Her voice shook into a plea. Emmet was usually more quiet than Fajra, but this silence was different. It hung like a storm cloud, ready to start pouring. He held out his hand to her and told her calmly, “It’s not about being ready. I simply do not want you to participate in the work. I understand your desire to help, but it’s not work I want you to take pride in… and neither is this.”

She saw Emmet glance around at the murky fight ring. Emmet tipped up Una’s cap so he could better see her defeated expression. 

“I’m… trapped on this track, Una,” he initiated bluntly, but there was a small hint of hesitation in his voice. “This scavenging job is not something I chose for myself. I cannot make an honest living without the League’s silent alarm going off. For Arecus’s sake, you hung my own wanted poster on my door. But you're not limited to the same tracks like I am. You don’t have to live in the shadows forever. You have your whole future ahead. I don't want you to throw away your opportunity to move forward and start over. I don't want you to be a bully or scavanger.” 

Una finally dared to look into her guardian’s luminous gray eyes. A new emotion flickered across his pained smile. Something almost like… guilt.

“I am Emmet,” he resumed. “And I can take care of the both of us— without resorting to petty larceny towards young children. It’s not easy to strive for honesty in times such as these, but I want you to have the best chance at succeeding. You’ll accomplish that by being the caring young lady I know you to be, not the bully you embrace to survive.”

At the conclusion, Emmet held out his hands for her to take. She hesitated at first but accepted them as she lay her hands timidly on his. Once he helped her to her feet, she threw her arms around his midriff and spoke with a cracked voice, “I-I’m sorry… for real this time.”

Silence settled between the two. She felt Emmet place a careful hand around her shoulder and whisper, “I forgive you, and… I’m sorry too.”

He paused before continuing on, “I want you that you apologize to the children you’ve been battling with. Return their money as well. We don’t need it.”

Una nodded as the pitter-patter of Sliver’s sleek paws once again bounced against the blacktop. A small meow rang out from her side as Sliver brushed against her leg. The familiar glow of Liepard’s face plate reappeared next to Emmet, watching the humans as if expecting praise for her success in terrorizing children. 

“Are you sure you don’t require medical attention?” Emmet questioned again as Una released him. “Don’t lie to me. Untreated injuries could lead to further complications.”

“I’m fine, honest,” Una insisted, moving her hand away from her stomach. “I… kinda deserved it anyway.”

Before any further discussion could commence, a loud, distant explosion echoed through the air and what little light filtered through the alleyway was snuffed out. The only light left was the purple glow illuminating from Sliver and Liepard’s heads. Once the street lamps flickered and died, a chorus of howls from the city-dwelling Pokémon filtered through the streets.

“Una, listen to me,” Emmet began quickly and with a sharp edge, his hand grabbing a hold of hers while his newly emblazoned bluish gray eyes stared at her through the darkness. “Do not uncouple yourself from me. Follow the rules, do as I say— and please, don’t be a hero.”

“Emmet you’re scaring me—“

“Do you understand?”

Una bit her lip but nodded. She hadn’t heard such panic in Emmet’s voice in years. Not since—

He didn’t give her time to recover. Still clutching each other’s hand, Emmet led her wordlessly from the alleyway. Sliver and Liepard flanked their trainers’ sides as if ready to throw themselves on whatever danger was rising. Without another glance at the makeshift arena, Emmet guided his charge back whence they came, just as he always did.

Chapter Text

Straiton City always had an aura of hidden fatigue and restlessness behind the shiny, advanced exterior, but it never came to the surface until this moment. Often the Straiton City residents gave off an aura of melancholy and wore constant frowns. Now their actions seemed to match their desperate expressions. As Emmet and Una staggered out of the alleyway, they were greeted by a rush of people hurrying to their homes or flicking their phone lights on in order to grapple with the situation. Una still had one hand clasped around Emmet’s, afraid of being separated in the chaos.

“We’ll go to the handcar,” Emmet instructed, his voice rather calm despite the chaos unfolding. “We’ll be safer—”

“What about Fajra?” Una persisted, her voice cracking from the stress threatening to crawl up her throat. “We can't leave without her!”

“Do not doubt her ability to claw her way out of trouble. She’ll be—”

Before he could finish, the lights flickered back to life— or so she thought. It wasn't until Una comprehended how dark the city streets remained that she realized that the only objects to regain power were the screens swarming the city. An intense electric blue light flooded from the kiosks and panels around them. The people closest to the screens threw up their hands or rushed away to avoid blinding themselves. The sound of static flooded through the speake before a high-pitched voice escaped shrilly.

“Well, well, well, when I said that the Tournament was gonna start with a bang, I wasn’t expecting the bang to be the fuse!”

A grayish Pokémon popped its head back across every surrounding screen. Its large ears twitched, gently bouncing against the long blue tuft of hair that sprouted atop its head and twirled around its right ear. While it had a wide beaming smile spread across its face, Una never felt less safe. With its appearance came a shiver down her spine, as if winter unexpectedly rolled through the darkened city. Emmet pulled her behind his back while retreating away from its face. She didn't need to see Emmet’s expression to comprehend his feelings, for the shaky grip on her hand spoke volumes. 

“Great citizens of New Unova, it appears we might have to delay our Tournament send off while power is restored to the public grid!” P.A.M insisted brightly while waving its paws to the side. “Please remain inside for the time being! Head to the nearest Pokémon Center or medical center if any injuries have occurred. Oh, and remember,”

P.A.M gestured to its eyes and ears while reminding, “When in doubt, best to shout! Report any suspicious behavior to your friendly officers! Who knows what scoundrels are waiting to take advantage of the cover of dar—“

The Minccino paused, staring into the ‘camera’ as if seeing something in its audience that onlookers couldn't. Yet its constant smile seemed to grow even wider, a feral glint lingering in its eyes. After a brief moment it merely chirped, “Well, that doesn't seem fair. But if that's how you want to play~”

The screens turned back to static in an instant, and over the silence came an echo of distant, deep shrieks from the northern end of the city. The surrounding people all began to scatter in fear with their one voice of hope muted. 

“Em,” Una persisted, pulling at his arm insistently, “Please, do you know what’s happening? What happened to P.A.M? Emmet, please!”

It wasn’t until she addressed him by his full name that he seemed to snap back to reality. Another chorus of howls emitted from the city, but they sounded much closer than before. He dragged Una back through the bustling streets, but explained hurriedly, “The Gym Tournament starts tonight, yes? That’s what P.A.M said. My guess is that someone attacked the power.”

Without warning, the pavement shook beneath their feet, causing more screams to shout out around them. With a jolt, Una’s foot hooked on a crack that split across the street, causing her to fall flat on her face. Her hand slipped from Emmet’s in order to catch herself, but her palms met the rough concrete that came with stinging scraps. A harsh mrrrow reached her ears and Sliver’s smooth glass forehead pushed against her chin to get her moving. Yet as Una pulled her head upward, she found her entire body chill over.

A huge crater lay within the middle of the street, and its center lay a massive Pokémon. Even in the dark, Una could see snippets of blue and purple feathers beneath its black mane. Three heads rose from the mass, but only the center head’s eyes glowed with a vibrant hue of maroon. The Hydreigon snorted violently as it shook its heads from side to side, flapping its torn wings. Its presence alone seemed to fill the area with an intense pressure Una never felt before. This wasn’t like the Neo Variant Hydreigons she often saw accompanying enforcers with their steel frames and glowing stripes. No, this one was very, very real. 

Her heart beat rapidly against her ribs, frozen in place. She couldn’t tear her gaze away from the beast as it let out a shriek-like roar at fleeing passerbys. Something didn’t feel right. She couldn’t explain it, but it felt like she could feel in her gut the hatred and hurt that it carried. It drummed within her ears, her throat, and even her stomach in time to the beating of her heart.

Hate… hate… hate…

And then its eyes met hers. Her breathing came in short, painful gasps. The weight of its seething hatred overwhelmed her. As Una tried to push herself back onto her feet, her palm once again slipped against the gravel and out from beneath her. Sliver let out a furious hiss beside her as if trying to threaten the beast. But what was a Purrloin in comparison to a dragon of loathing? Still, the dragon continued to breathe in rhythm to the drum of anguish ringing in Una’s ears.

Hate, hate, hate—

Just as Una raised her arms to cover her face from the beast’s jaws, a hideous yowl split across the air. The sound of metal paws on pavement dashed past, and Una opened her eyes just in time to see a glowing purple blur lunge at the Hydreigon’s neck. A mix of shrieks and roars filled the air as Liepard twisted its jaw into its neck while the dragon tried to thrust her off. 

A hand reappeared at her shoulder while another turned her head to reveal Emmet hastily kneeling beside her. Despite his own ragged breathing, he managed to shout over the noise, “The schedule has not been going as planned, has it? Can you stand?”

But Una’s eyes could only jerk back to Liepard dangling from the Hydreigon’s neck. Or at least, Liepard had been dangling from it. With one mighty thrust, the Hydregion dislodged Liepard and swung it right back where she came from—which just so happened to be Emmet’s side. Una could barely comprehend the moment her guardian threw himself over her as the heavy metal Liepard slammed into him like a rag doll. 

Una yelped as Emmet’s body nearly crushed hers as he took the brunt of the blow. She heard Liepard crunch against the concrete after being knocked into her trainer. A low, staticky mewl rose from nearby, followed by the groaning of steel joints. 

“Em!” Una cried out shrilly as she tried pushing Emmet off. “Em, please get off! Em!”

But there was no answer. Her heart was ready to explode at any second and the sensation of being stabbed with an ice pick afflicted her stomach. Her fear wasn’t even relieved when Liepard swooped down to drag Emmet aside by his ragged coat collar. She didn’t realize her cap fell off as she painfully pushed herself back up. Her long mint green hair usually hidden underneath the cap now snaked down her back and front.  Once she was free from his weight, Una leaned over to shake him.

“Emmet, get up! Please, Emmet, don’t go now!” She begged again.

This time she heard a wheeze and a groan. “I am Em… and I want the license of the train that hit me.”

Liepard gave an apologetic mewl as it nudged against her trainer’s head. Una almost laughed from relief only to be brought back down by the horrible sound of loathing.

Hate… hate… it hurts.

The last words landed like a pitiful whisper. The Hydreigon swooped lower to the ground and the earth began to quake again. Una scanned for anyone else who could help. The crowds were all moving away from the fight as fast as they could. Not even the other Pokémon in the vicinity came forth to fight back. Everyone was either immobilized by their fear or fled in a desperate attempt to save their own life.

Una turned to Liepard and instructed with a shaky voice, “Liepard, can you come with me? Sliver, stay with Em.”

She gasped as Emmet’s hand snatched at hers and gripped it as if a lifeline. Despite his labored breathing, he still managed to breathe, “D…don’t go near it... run and find Fajra… follow the rules… please, Una.”

“I’m not leaving you,” Una insisted sharply, although she squeezed his hand as she spoke. “I am following the rules. You told me not to leave your side.”

She couldn’t tell if the weakening of his grip was a sign of compliance or his consciousness slipping away again. Regardless, she moved her wrist from his grasp and forced herself back to her feet despite the internal scream of protest from her legs. Liepard nudged her nose against Emmet’s cheek before following beside Una, leaving him under the watch of Sliver.

Una moved as cautiously as she could with the ground quaking beneath her. She kept her eyes fixed on the Hydreigon. The closer she grew, the louder the chanting grew in her ears.

Pain, pain, pain… 

She halted several paces away before calling out to it as calmly as she could muster,  “Where are you hurting? Why are you angry? Is… is it something I can help with? I can’t let you keep rampaging like this!”

The creature lifted its center head, its eyes fixed on Una. She stayed still, not wanting to startle it further. Yet through the drumming in ears, she heard a new string of words. Words no longer filled with seething hatred but… surprise.

You came back.

The dragon shifted closer to Una, but the atmosphere changed. Its movements weren’t quick and violent, but slower and more relaxed. Yet Una’s only comfort was in Liepard, still stationed by her side. She knew of the reputation of biological Hydreigons.

When the Hydreigon stopped a few feet from her, he stooped his central head down to present its frill. It was only now that Una could see a tight mechanical collar embedded near the dragon’s frills. It was surrounded by bite marks from the other two heads, biting to free the host.

Pain… pain…

The drum of agony repeated itself again. Una held her breath as she realized what the Hydreigon was waiting for. Slowly, she reached down and gripped the collar, finding the push lock on top. With a swift pull, the collar unclipped and she quickly dropped it to the ground. A mark remained where the collar was, but upon being freed, the Hydreigon let out a deep breath of relief.

The relief was only temporary as a new set of sirens blew from the upper segment of the city. A familiar buzz of electricity filled the air. The Hydreigon’s center head rose up, a low growl escaping its throat. Its wings began to flap harder, carrying its body back toward the sky. The drumming forced itself back into Una’s ears, the same malicious voice regaining power. 

Hate, hate, hate…

“Wait,” Una blurted out, horror dawning. “Don't go! Please, you have to stop attacking! I don’t know what's happening, but you’ll just end up hurting yourself or more people! You don't need to fight anymore!”

She regretted the step she took towards the creature the instant the Hydreigon’s three heads all snapped their eyes toward her. The attack happened so fast that she couldn't comprehend what happened until the Hydreigon was forced on its back. Liepard lunged with a howl, locking its jaws around its neck. At the same time, another Pokémon that she recognized as Thievul darted out from behind Una and began tearing into its right head. 

“DON’T BE A HERO, KID!”  

A hand enclosed around Una’s wrist and yanked her backward. Fear quickly melted away as she recognized Fajra’s flame-like hair and ragged poncho. Her face was shielded by a partial gas mask that Una only saw her wear when planning to descend dusty underground tunnels. 

“Fajra it's not what you—”

“I think it's exactly what I think!” Fajra interrupted with a snap, but Una could hear rising fear in her tone. “Let the protestors deal with it! They made this mess, they can clean it up!”

“But—”

She didn't get to finish. Fajra rushed Una back to where she left Emmet. He managed to get back onto his knees while Sliver perched himself within Emmet’s large coat collar. The Purrloin held Una’s hat between its teeth, its face lighting up with relief at its trainer’s return. Upon Fajra returning to her partner’s side, he reached out for her hand in a silent request. Una’s stomach squirmed with guilt at the sight of his uncomfortable smile, as if he was trying to hide his pain from the two women. He appeared more pale and disheveled than usual, and a sharp wince escaped once Fajra helped pull him back to his feet. He swayed dangerously before putting one arm each around Fajra and Una’s shoulders. 

“Fajra, I—” Emmet began, but Fajra quickly shook her head and remarked with a sharp tone, “Save it for when we’re not risking our lives— and put your mask on. Trust me, we don’t wanna be here when P.A.M releases the big dogs on the city. I’d prefer not to be arrested for being in your company. Thievul and Liepard can catch up to us when they’re done dealin’ with that punk.”

Fajra didn't hesitate to begin walking, leaving Emmet and Una scrambling to keep pace. Una watched as Emmet reached down with trembling hands to grab the partial gas mask he hid beneath his scarf and coat collar. He didn’t speak to her, but once he finished strapping on his mask, she thought she felt his grip squeeze her shoulder as if to reassure her.

Una tried to keep her mind focused on supporting her guardian, but the howls on the Hydregion continued to flood her ears throughout the bustling streets. She caught glimpses of civilians fleeing to their homes or nearby buildings. Others were shouting or cursing one another. Even through the chaos, she managed to catch glimpses of soldiers dawning white uniforms battling against other wild Pokémon. Whatever war fell upon Straiton City, it was not discriminating. It didn't discriminate between man or woman, the children and the elderly, biological Pokénon and Neo Variants, nor civilians and authority. 

Yet despite all the pain, the same chant continued to drum through her skull even as it faded with distance from the Hydreigon. 

HATE, Hate, hate…

Chapter Text

NEW NIMBASA TIMES | September 7, 2157

A REGION DIVIDED— TERRORIST GROUP ATTACKS REGION POWER ON THE EVE OF THE NEW UNOVA GYM TOURNAMENT  

As the great region of New Unova shone with pride and excitement for the 47th Annual New Unova Gym Tournament, a small rogue operation plotted in secret to drag down the hope our region finally created after years of rebuilding. At 18:22 PM Sunday evening, the lower half of New Unova lost power to both main and secondary power sources. 

While civilians were left to grapple in the dark, new horrors spread through the main Second District cities, including New Straiton, Castelia, Nimbasa, and Driftveil. The criminals rose up under the cover of the darkness and flooded through the streets in protest of Champion Harlan’s reign. Yet these were no peaceful protestors, as the rogues released rampaging biological Pokémon. These were no ordinary Pokémon, but banned Pokémon; untamable by nature and dangerous to human life. Devastating injuries and loss of life is what the cities received. These rogues released unfathomable dangers upon the civilians of this great nation. These civilians were their friends, their neighbors, their families. 

“I am deeply saddened by these attacks,” Champion Harlan spoke to the nation several hours after the power and calm was restored. “What these low-lifes have done to our region is abhorrent, and it is even more despicable that they chose to attack on the eve of the Tournament of all days. The Gym Tournament is one of our most sacred traditions in Unova. My father spent much of his life trying to revive and restore Unova’s roots after the war wiped out much of our region’s identity. This attempt to crush New Unova’s symbol of restoration and hope to our great nation is repulsive. I promise that those who attempt to destroy our security and hope will be found and punished. Until then, I will not let them win— the Tournament will begin as scheduled.” 

“Teh, what a bunch of stuck up as—”

“Fajra, please calm yourself. You're hurting me.” 

Una flinched a little at Fajra’s harsh words, which drowned the static voice from the radio. She felt Emmet cringe against her while Fajra changed his bandages covering his palms. Even Liepard whined, but she watched her trainer with guilt while tensely resting her head on his knee. 

Even the distant Anville Ruins which they called home felt unsafe. Fajra kept the radio on at all times, allowing one news report after another to flood through her base. Una understood why Fajra was so enthralled, but she wished Fajra would take a break once in a while. It served as a constant reminder of how close they were to a completely different reality. When she listened to the reports of the injured and missing, all she could think was that she and Emmet could've been one of them. 

According to Fajra, Emmet had been extremely fortunate that Liepard didn’t weigh more, but regardless, she was still a Steel Type Pokémon. The force of Liepard smashing into Emmet was similar to getting hit by a car. The result left Emmet with some rib fractures, leading to his breath coming in short, painful wheezes. The fall after being hit wasn’t much better, causing his hands to get scrapped up and his right wrist sprained. 

“I won’t lie to you,” Una remembered Fajra whispering to Emmet when she thought Una had fallen asleep while resting against him. “If Liepard had hit you any higher up, like your neck… she probably would’ve taken you out permanently.”

Una’s heart sank into her stomach at the words, and they continued to torment her. She replayed the moment Emmet shielded her over and over, cringing at every instant Liepard’s ragdoll body made contact with Emmet. She shivered as she recalled the memory and propped her head against Emmet’s shoulder.

“I said what I said!” Fajra finally spat in response, though she seemed to be forcing herself to be as gentle as possible while dressing Emmet’s wounds. “Every single one of them! Look, no one dislikes the Tournament more than me. I despise the stupid Minccino, I think it’s a waste of tax money to keep it runnin. But who’s bright idea was to stage a coup the eve of the Tournament? Of course it was never going to work, and now all they’ve done is tick them off. Fat lotta help they were.”

“Why does it matter that it happened the day of the Tournament?” Una piped up, although she was surprised by her voice’s hoarseness. “Like, I know it’s a big deal, but… is it really that big of a deal?”

Emmet glanced at Fajra, who’s tense stance seemed to slack at the question. Despite the Gym Tournament being the most popular event in New Unova, Emmet and Fajra always seemed to dodge around Una’s questions on it. She only ever saw the televised battles when she accompanied her guardians into town, leaving her to watch the battles on the kiosks. 

“It's pretty much what the Champion said,” Fajra started with a sigh. “The Gym Tournament isn’t just the biggest event in New Unova because trainers get a serious step-up by reaching the Elite Four. When the war ended, the region lost a lot of what made it special. But when Champion Duncan came into power after the war ended, he reinstated the classic Gym Challenge. The Gym Challenge was a beloved tradition pre-war, and the League hoped it would inspire morale and give a reason for improvement within the region. The protestors didn't just signal their displeasure with the government, but they sent a threat against the peace the League has been trying to keep since the war ended.”

“But… why are you mad when you don't like the Tournament either?” 

Fajra’s face flushed slightly, her sheets turning nearly as red as her hair. However she brushed it aside and remarked, “Point is, those idiots made everything a lot harder for the rest of us. Security is going to skyrocket and who knows if we can even sell what little product we acquire after this. Not to mention we’re down a man.”

“I could—” Una began, but she was swiftly shot down.

“I trust you’ll remain on schedule even without me, Fajra,” he motivated Fajra, cutting over Una’s offer. “You did it long before I came along, and I've no doubt you can do it again.”

But Una wasn’t ready to give up. She pushed herself back to her feet and piped up,  “I can help too! I could take Em’s place— just until he feels better!” 

“Una, we talked about this,” Emmet interjected. “I don’t want you to start down that track, and it’s only going to be more dangerous. Those artifacts we acquire are almost always from League property. You could get hurt or worse.”

Una turned desperately to Fajra, giving her a pleading expression. Fajra wore a conflicted gaze before putting a hand to Una’s shoulder. “He’s right, sugar. I hear you, but I… can’t let you put your life on the line like that. You’re still young yet, and he’s right, the consequences if something goes wrong… look, this isn't for you to stress over, kiddo.”

Una’s hands clenched into fists. “But I am stressed over it. It was all my fault to begin with, at least this way I might be able to make up for what I did!”

Fajra’s eyes widened slightly, but before she could reply, Emmet spoke up once again. “Fajra, could you do me a favor and let Liepard out for a few minutes? She hasn’t left the house since we got back. Maybe she will feel more inclined to hunt if you’re with her.”

Una was surprised by the lack of protest, but Fajra relaxed her shoulders and snapped her fingers to get Liepard’s attention. Liepard glanced at her trainer with confusion, but she relaxed once he patted her smooth forehead. With his reassurance, Liepard hobbled to her feet and limped after Fajra.

Once it was just Una and Emmet, Emmet patted the empty spot on the dusty floor she vacated while wearing his familiar tired smile. She didn’t wait for him to vocalize the request and sat back down, pulling her legs back up to her chin.

“Una, you understand neither of us are upset with you… don’t you?” Emmet asked, his voice keeping a steady, reassuring tone. “We’re not punishing you. What happened is not your fault. Please, don’t blame yourself. Your safety is my responsibility, and it is my duty to make sure you’re safe.”

She felt his hand pat her on the head, which she reached out with her own and gripped tightly. She loosened it upon hearing his wince, but stammered quickly, “It’s not just that… I should've listened to you and left. I shouldn't have freed that Hydregion, I shouldn't have listened to it but he was so loud—”

“What do you mean?”

Una couldn't bring herself to look into the eyes of her guardian. Instead she kept her face behind her knees and explained hesitantly, “I… I could hear the Hydregion talking. He was in pain, and his voice was so loud and angry. I thought maybe if I helped him, he would fly away. But he just got more angry after I helped him… If I hadn't went after it maybe it would’ve…”

Tears began to overwhelm her sight, now clutching her hands over her face to smudge them away. Emmet had gone unnaturally quiet, and when she dared to shoot a glance at him, she realized his smile had outright vanished. Instead his reassuring smile was replaced by a frown of worry. Upon noticing that his charge’s eyes were on him, he plastered back on his reassuring smile and assured her, “Una, the Hydregion race is notorious for being untamable. They lash out at anything that moves. I appreciate that you tried to help it, I really do. But you must understand… it was going to rampage regardless if it was freed or not. It’s in their nature to rage. What you did was kind and merciful, but what it did with that second chance afterwards is not your fault.”

He paused. “But… I must ask, what did it say to you?” 

Una shook her head and said with a sniffle, “Not a lot… it just kept saying it was in pain and furious.”

Her stomach churned as she remembered the Hydregion’s rampage, its eyes reflecting the conflict and agony it held within. The words that clanged around in her eyes and against her skull. So loud, so painful… but yet…

After a moment she asked softly, “Em, why didn’t you hear it? I thought… maybe you heard it too.”

His smile shifted awkwardly, but recovered quickly and remarked, “I don’t know, perhaps I missed it. There was a lot of noises occurring then. I don’t think it’s anything to worry about.”

But she could see the truth in the way the corners of his mouth turned downward and his eyes abruptly avoided hers. He must’ve seen her unease because placed his hand on her shoulder again and remarked, “Please, don’t fret over what happened. No one is mad, and we’re just glad you’re safe. Just remember that I am Em, and I can still take care of us. I just need some time to recover.”

Despite his comforting smile, something felt off. It wasn’t like Emmet to lie, or at the very least withhold his true opinions. So while she nodded back, she couldn’t help but notice the heavy pit her stomach and the sensation of feeling… alien. Perhaps she shouldn’t have been quick to tell him about her experience after all. 

Chapter Text

Hopeful participants of the Gym Tournament are still making their way down to the nearest League facilities all over New Unova. The 47th annual Gym Tournament is reaching a staggering two hundred participants with many still on the way. Remember—only one more week to sign up before the Tournament begins opening gyms! If you're looking for adventure and a chance to make your family and city proud, hurry and sign up at your nearest League facility! The Gym Challenge will begin in New Straiton City in the Lower Quadrant, so prepare and give yourself plenty of time to—

The voice on the radio, already of poor quality, became staticky and harsh on the ears before Emmet finally called to Una, “Turn that off, would you, Una? We don't need to listen to that anymore.”

Una hid her expression of disappointment, but at this point, she knew the radio wouldn't improve in quality. She turned the dial and the energetic voice of P.A.M vanished with a click. Now the daunting entrance of the abandoned subway station lay in eerie silence, the ghostly presence of the Anville Ruins providing no comfort against the ghostly tunnel. There were no cries of Pokémon in the surrounding woods or the skies above. No one other than the renegades occupied the area after the war. The only sound left was of the clatter of tools Emmet switched between as he tried fixing the busted handcart. 

Fajra took the only working handcart back out to test her luck again in selling her findings, leaving Emmet and Una behind. Fajra had pulled Una aside before leaving, firmly patting her on the shoulder and instructing, “Pretend Em is in charge, but please be sure he don't get himself into trouble. He's gonna work on projects he shouldn't be in his current condition, so make sure to help him where you can.”

Fajra certainly knew her business partner well. Despite Emmet allowing a wince to escape every now and then, he rarely asked for Una’s help. Yet she was too stubborn to leave him alone, and she was the only one there to help if he hurt himself further. It was definitely an adjustment as Emmet hadn’t been benched like this in several years. At least, not since they first started living together with Fajra, back when Una was younger. Back then he mostly stayed behind for Una’s benefit, not wanting to leave a young child by herself with no one around for miles. But now she was older and didn’t need constant supervision. The roles now reversed and Una observed her guardian, trying to occupy his time as best he could under the circumstances. 

“How long do you think it will take to fix it?” Una spoke at last, pushing herself up from the old log she used as a bench and striding over to Emmet. “When it’s done, would I be able to use it?”

“It’s almost done,” Emmet answered over the squeak of the new wheel being tightened. “But I don’t think you’d get very far. The handles are verrrry heavy, I don’t want you to get stranded in the tunnels.”

“Sliver can totally do it! He’s the small but mighty type.”

At this remark, Emmet glanced over at Sliver, who had chosen the moment to start playing with Liepard’s swishing tail as she laid out in the sun. He seemed to struggle with lifting her tail due to the heavy but flexible razor attached at the end. Una bit her lip and remarked quickly, “Well, when he evolves he’ll be able to reach the bars.”

“But until then, I rather you not go alone,” Emmet replied back, but she heard him let out a short chuckle. “For now, please fetch me the last wheel. It should be a little way into the tunnel entrance. I’ll need your help putting that one on. It’s proven difficult to do everything one-handed.”

Una withheld her pouting by biting her tongue, but hurried off in the direction Emmet instructed. The looming mouth of the tunnel at one point sparked feelings of dread and foreboding, but she learned after a time that no creature dared enter the forsaken place. Yet as she entered the darkness and found the wheel right where Emmet left it, a strange sound reached her alert ears. Whispers whistled through the air— a phenomenon she never heard before. She froze and squinted further into the abyss. The tunnel lay as dark as death, and it continued to whisper a familiar chorus. 

Scatter, scatter, scatter…

“Hello?” She called into the dark, now taking a few steps back. “Is anyone there? Fajra, is that you?”

But the whispers only grew shriller, growing from whistles to high pitched cries. Sounds of rustling began to fill the empty tunnel and the chorus continued their chant. 

Scatter, scatter, SCATTER, SCATTER…

For a moment, she didn’t realize that she was in Anville Ruins anymore. Her breathing came in short bursts, the ground quaked beneath her and brought her to her knees. The voices haunted every corner of her mind, threatening to consume her. All she could see was the rearing Hydregion, eyes blazing and roaring, PAIN, PAIN, PAIN—

“Una!”

Her eyes shot open to see Emmet rushing to her side. His expression appeared panicked, but he managed to reassure, “Una, they are only Joltiks. They won't hurt you. I thought you weren’t scared of them anymore.”

Sure enough, a cluster of Joltik crawled out from under where the wheel was, their shrill voices fading into the distance as they hopped further into the abandoned tunnel.

Scatter, scatter, scat..ter, scat…!

Emmet reached out his less injuried hand to one of the Joltiks, allowing it to hop on and up his arm. Una’s breathing slowed slightly, but her ears rang with the shrill sound of the Joltiks’ voices. 

“Do… do you not hear them?” Una blurted out, her voice becoming shrill as she backed away from the colony. “They’re so loud… it was like…”

Tears began streaming down her face. She jerked her hands up, rubbing them aside before croaking, “I-is there something wrong with me? I keep… I keep hearing things.”

She paused in an effort to regain her breath. “Am I going crazy?”

“No, not at all,” Emmet replied, but his voice was slow as if he was choosing his words carefully. “I promise, it's nothing to…”

He paused, glancing around as if waiting for someone to pop up out of nowhere. His shoulders caved from his stiff posture. He patted her shoulder lightly before easing himself onto the ground, gesturing for Una to follow his lead. 

“I owe you an apology,” Emmet admitted bluntly. “I have not been the most… forthcoming. You are old enough to know now, and after the events of the past few days, I should’ve told you sooner. I didn’t want to talk about it because it meant discussing… the night we met, and that was a selfish decision on my part.”

His hand shook as it motioned along with his words, and Una remained quiet. He adjusted his own cap before continuing, “When I first found you in the League’s possession, it was not solely by chance. I’ve always said that I found you when trying to escape and was compelled to take you with me. That’s not entirely true.”

Una stared at him intently, but refused to speak. She was afraid of frightening him off course, like a Deerling in the woods. This was always the unbreachable subject within their small clan. 

“You were young, I don’t expect you to remember much,” he resumed. “But you know that the League doesn’t keep the peace like the news says it does. Most people don't realize that the League simply hides the fact that there are cracks. That includes hiding the people who point them out, whether it’s intentional or not. Whenever someone threatens the image the League built, they dispose of them or put them out of sight from the rest of society so life can move on. You and I are… were those people. You know my memories from before my imprisonment never came back, so I don’t know much about my own story. But… I do know a little bit about yours.

“The night we met, there was a… well, a Good Samaritan, who brought me from my cell to yours. I don’t know much about him, but he recognized you didn’t belong there and wanted to make sure you were safe. He didn’t say where you came from or why you were there, but he told me one thing: you have the potential to develop a rare, but verrry great gift.”

Emmet finally turned to look her in the eyes and finished, “He did not tell me many details, but you are beginning to develop a second type of hearing— the ability to hear the voices of Pokémon. It’s a skill last recorded among kings. He told me I would recognize the signs of its awakening when it happened.”

Una’s body went numb, staring back at her guardian blankly. Her breathing calmed down, but she didn't know how to act or what to ask first. She reacted hoarsely, “Why did it start now? Why can't I hear Sliver or Liepard?”

“My best guess is that your hearing only works on biological Pokémon. Neo Variants are so far removed from their original species, I don't think they communicate the same way as biological Pokémon anymore. You’ve been sheltered from most biological Pokémon, so it would explain why you get overstimulated when encountering them.”

Una nodded mindlessly, but her stomach writhed in distress. “If it's true, and the League kept me because of my hearing… Why would they do that? It's not dangerous, is it?”

“It's not dangerous in the way you may think. People in power like holding all the cards, and for someone like you to hold one card they can't possess… they will feel threatened. Still, I couldn't tell you for sure why they kept you.”

Una swallowed nervously before whispering in a cracked voice, “Does that mean they’ll come back for me?”

Emmet’s arm fell across her shoulder in response, allowing her to prop her head against his own shoulder. He finally shook his head and assured her, “If they do, they won’t get very far. Fajra and I won’t let them. Neither of us are ever going back. As far as anyone knows, we both vanished seven years ago.” 

He adjusted her cap once again so he could see her face, allowing her to now see his reassuring smile. “This is our secret— just you, me, and Fajra. We’ll take it one stop at a time. It may take time, but you’ll adapt. You always do.”

Her breathing calmed slightly at the reassurance. One more question pulled at her brain. “Did… did you ever learn who the man was? The one who rescued us?”

Emmet’s expression twisted in an odd way as if he almost found the comment amusing. Regardless, he answered quite kindly, “Nope. He was… all I know is that he was an individual with regrets. I haven't heard from or about him since.”

Emmet paused. “I'm sorry. I wish I knew more.”

Una fell into silence, but she didn’t pry away from her guardian. Even now she could still hear the distant whispers of the Joltiks deep within the tunnel. She didn’t know what she had hoped for in the response. Perhaps closure— a mere fragment of an idea who her family was before Emmet and Fajra. Instead she was simply handed a divine yet sensitive sense of hearing and an urge to run.

Chapter Text

A distant clatter broke the silence of the old house, waking Una with a start. Una’s eyes shot open, but her room was submerged in complete darkness. Sliver’s glowing green eyes and pink glass forehead were the only light. Before she could comprehend her consciousness, another thud echoed through the old house. Perhaps other people would be considered by such a racket, but for Una this was a common occurrence whenever she stayed with Emmet over Fajra. Even now as she staggered from her bed to the door, she could hear the distant sound of heavy breathing and the clinking of glasses in the kitchen. 

Should I bother? She thought to herself momentarily. He’s just going to brush me off… he probably doesn't want to see me anyway. 

She opened the door by a crack, she caught sight of Liepard darting after Emmet’s shadow bouncing off the dimly lit kitchen walls. Her ears managed to catch the sound of running water, a slight mrrow, and Emmet’s hoarse voice, “I-I need a moment, Liepard. Just another unfortunate dream…”

Una was about to close the door again when an odd response reached her ears. A low, gravelly growl like white noise spoke up after a brief pause, “Unfortunate dream? What a mild way to put it.” 

A racket followed as Fajra’s old beer bottles knocked to the floor. Emmet’s breathing became heavy and elevated. As Liepard backed into view, it dawned on Una that her eyes were no longer glowing green, but instead consumed by a bright, violent shade of purple. The creature cocked its head to the side before adding, “It is… good to speak with you again, Mister Emmet. My apologies for such an abrupt appearance, but I believe we both read the signs and I could not wait. Forgive me, but I couldn't help but overhear some of your conversation earlier today.”

Yet as Una jerked her hands to the door in an attempt to push it open, a hard tug pulled at her long hair. Sliver released her hair only to lightly nip at her ankle and lash its tail, signaling for her to stay.

“Futile,” she overheard Emmet respond weakly. “I thought you… I thought you died.” 

Liepard paused as it pawed at Una’s scattered drawings in one corner. “I wish I had died. P.A.M’s mercy is crueler than his punishments. Alas, you and I have some unfinished business.”

Emmet did not think he could feel his stomach twist into more knots than it already had. After all these years, even after all that had unraveled with Una, he never thought this creature would find them again. Yet here it was, possessing his partner and staring him down with Una’s room so close by. Futile paced back to Emmet with a slight limp, rubbing its face against one of the nearby chairs while it spoke, “Do not look shocked. You were so obvious to find, it was almost like you wanted my attention.” 

“I don’t—“

“Do not lie, Mister Emmet— it is unbecoming of you. Besides, I have access to all this vessel’s memories. I know about the Dark Stone… and the girl.”

Emmet’s hand reached for his pocket in order to feel for the box he had taken days before. “You’ve been spying on us through Liepard, haven’t you? For how long?”

Liepard eyed his hand wearily before rasping, “Only for short times. Consider it a check on my investment. The only reason I have been able to reach out is because of that blessed power outage. I am a free agent again… at least partly. I am here to warn you, because right now you have made a lot of enemies. Too many and too powerful.”

Emmet's grip on the box tightened. “It does not concern you.”

“Actually, it does. You have no idea the power you have been walking around with in your pocket. Mister Emmet, that stone can change the entire balance of Unova if put in the wrong hands.”

Futile paused before adding. “Well, maybe I should just show you.”

Liepard’s jaw stopped and the overwhelming sound of static and white noise. Just as Emmet reached to cover his ears, the sound reached a pitch and suddenly shifted into gravely voices. 

“And you have no idea where the thieves went?” a low distorted voice emanated from the Liepard like a recording. “This is indeed quite… disappointing. Perhaps we will have to initiate our plan a little earlier than expected. We’ll move forward with ‘Disarming Voice’. Send the description of the thieves to the other units. They could not have gone far. Keep an eye out for them on the field. That package must be reacquired, and do report back to me when you arrive on base. I’m afraid this mistake cannot be overlooked.”

The distorted voice suddenly cut off, only to be replaced by another recording. This time the voice shifted into a computerized voice. An artificially generated one, more so than even Futile, who still had a hint of humanity to its tone. 

P.A.M OBSERVATION LOG — April 5, 2157

Anomaly #346: 

Recorded at 18:30, New Straiton City, Southern New Unova: Previously reported Hydreigon attacked male bystander, possibly between the ages of 35 and 40. Bystander appeared to be injured, however the tape was damaged minutes later and the body was not found on scene.

Reason for Report: Male suspect tagged for resembling Fugitive #101 [REDACTED], last sighted August 24, 2150. Level One Priority, VR Facility notified. Report will be added to the Fugitive #101 [REDACTED] file.

 Anomaly #355: 

Recorded at 18:33, New Straiton City, Southern New Unova: Previously reported Hydreigon was confronted by a female, possibly between the ages of 11 and 15. Hydreigon seemed to respond to her presence positively at first, however quickly reverted back to its rampage. Female did not appear to be its trainer. 

Reason for Report:  Female suspect tagged for resembling Missing Person #1590 [REDACTED], last sighted August 24, 2150. Level One Priority, VR Facility notified. Report will be added to the Missing Person #1590 [REDACTED] file. 

Once the statement finished, the Liepard’s mouth shut, readjusting back into place. It then continued as if nothing happened, “That is barely a taste of the reports spreading over Unova. Ready or not, you better believe once this reaches the Champion, he is going to start combing the country to find her. He does not like, what you called, loose ends.”

Emmet took off his cap at this point, revealing his thinning gray hair. He wiped the sweat forming on his brow and croaked, “You’ve made your point. What am I supposed to do? What do you want me to do?”

“Well believe it or not, I do not want you to go back to prison either,” Liepard responded bluntly. “Neither of you are much good to me behind bars. I am doing all I can to keep P.A.M. from detecting your presence. Your Liepard and Purrloin, for example, are completely masked from P.A.M. I'm the only one who can inhabit them. Your stunt with the Dark Stone was foolish. However, I cannot deny that it is safer with you until need of it. The girl on the other hand…”

The Liepard paused as if deep in thought. “She needs to learn to fight properly. I am aware she has become a bit of a delinquent when you are not around—do not look surprised, I can see just as well as P.A.M on a good day. I hear you swore off Pokémon battles, but she needs to learn from the best… and battles run in your blood.”

“I will not turn her into a soldier for you,” Emmet retorted, turning his back away from Liepard. “She’s still just a child. She's confused and hurt, and most importantly, this is not her burden to carry.”

Futile took a few slow, careful steps closer, causing the human to back away further. Futile stopped, glaring, “Mister, Emmet… I understand that you have raised her as if she was your own daughter. You want to protect her, but you need to understand that she has been set apart for a greater purpose. You may be able to protect her from P.A.M. and the League for a little while, but you cannot outrun her heritage.”

“Who says I am running from it? We will go through that tunnel when we get there. I don’t want to overwhelm her, it’s not helpful.”

Futile paused before raising its voice, “Your time has run out. All the pieces on this chessboard are in motion after years of being stagnant. The dissidents are rising. If I am discovered, escape will become impossible. Think: would you hold the two things that could aid Unova so close to your chest because, what—you do not like change? I did not give her to you so you could play family— I gave her to you so she would learn to fight when the time came for her to do her nature-given job, like the Dragons above intended; and they did intend it. So move, because if you stay in this limbo, you both will decay—like the wasteland you live in.”

Emmet’s fear subsided long enough to regain composure and scolded, “And I thought maybe you rescued her because she was a six year-old in a hopeless situation and did not deserve to be kept in a hole for the rest of her life. Instead you’re going to make her fight in your own little war and risk her ending up in the same cell you took her from.”

He down at Futile. “Well I remember verrry clearly what it was like, and I will not let that happen ever again. Vacate my partner. You long overstayed your welcome.”

Futile opened its mouth, but suddenly stiffened and snapped its head towards the door of Una’s room. It was open by a slight crack, and Emmet thought he saw a glimpse of something like hunger in the tense movements of Futile. Yet it backed off, finally replying, “Consider what I said. I will be back, Mister Emmet, and I hope you will realize then I am not the enemy. If you change your mind, you only need to say the word. I am as easy to find as P.A.M.”

Liepard’s eyes immediately shifted from purple to green. She let out a low mrrrow, giving Emmet enough time to catch her before collapsing onto the floor. He winced sharply as her solid weight put pressure on his wounds, but he did not push her off. Instead he knelt down on the floor, cradling his only Pokémon in his arms as if trying to keep his own world from falling apart.

Una closed her door as quietly as she could manage despite her trembling hands, shutting herself off from Emmet. It was only then that she realized the sweat on her palms and the adrenaline coursing through her veins. Sliver brushed against her leg, letting out a soft mew and pawing at her foot. 

She wished she could go back and turn away from the conversation. The great burden that weighed on her chest since the Hydreigon only seemed to grow. As she slid her back down against the wall, sitting on the floor of her messy room, she pulled Sliver into her lap and close to her chest. Sliver squirmed in protest, but she couldn't bring herself to let him go.

“I-I don't know what to do,” she whispered hoarsely to her Purrloin. “The stupid Hydreigon… I got us in s-so much trouble trying to help, and I can't stop what's happening in my head—”

Her grip tightened. “I don't want to leave, I don't want them to be scared… but I don't want to get everyone else in trouble either… I want to know the whole truth for once on what's happening and what I need to do. No more secrets, right?”

Sliver successfully wiggled out of her arms, but he did not flee completely. He instead pawed at one of the discarded pamphlets scattered across her bedroom floor. As he dragged it closer, Una noticed the familiar emblem of the New Unova Gym Challenge. Yet Sliver continued to paw at a small circular illustration of the familiar Minccino with a long loop of fur wrapped around its ear. A small text beside it read, “Digital assistance and registration help can be found at your nearest Pokémon Center.”

“I don't think the Gym Challenge will fix any of my problems—” Una began, but Sliver shook his head and instead pushed himself back so he sat on his hind legs before stomping on P.A.M's picture again. 

Una stared blankly at Sliver and then turned back to the photo. Her eyes then widened with realization, picking up the pamphlet again. P.A.M’s cheery face left a revolting tension within the out of her stomach, leaving her to pocket it for the time being. Perhaps…perhaps this was her best chance at getting some answers. There was nothing else in Anville that could connect with him.  

Without another word to Sliver, she got to work while Sliver watched in anticipation. As quietly as she could, Una began gathering whatever she thought was most valuable for her quest. Her notebook, any leftover money from the underground fight rings, medicine for Sliver— all shoved into her old bag. Next came her old cap— the beaten-up black one that matched Emmet’s white cap. She adjusted it over her tangled green hair before glancing wearily at the door. Her ever-present guilt certainly wasn't going to be lifted from what she was about to do.

With this last look, she turned to her scattered desk of drawings and random notes. Finding a blank sheet of paper, she wrote a  letter she hoped Emmet wouldn’t need to read.

Emmet, 

I’m really sorry for what I've done. I overheard your conversation with Liepard. I want to know the truth so I’m going to find Futile. He seemed to be the only one who knows who I am and what's going on inside me. I know you're worried and scared of what's happening, and I don't want you to get hurt for me anymore. I’ll be back as soon as I can, please don't worry. I have Sliver with me. Please don't be mad at me.

Love you, 

Una 

Una hesitated before tossing the letter onto her bed. Her attention turned to her room’s window. As quietly as she could, she slipped it open large enough for Sliver to leap out into the night air. She glanced at her bedroom door once more before prying her gaze away, pulling herself out the window and rushing into the night and away from familiarity.

Chapter Text

“Maybe… maybe this wasn't such a good idea, Sliver.”

Sliver let out a small mrrow in reply. Even against the night sky that swallowed all light from Anville Ruins, the abandoned tunnel was still darker. Even as Una stared into its mouth, she swore she could hear the whispers of tiny Joltiks just beyond. Or at least, she thought they were Joltiks. Unfortunately, there was no other way out of the ghost town. The trip on the tracks was not normally so foreboding, but she had never traveled through it alone. Emmet and Fajra knew the system of tracks like the back of their hands, and Una never learned the skill to navigate the dark so easily.

Yet even now, she remembered the lingering words of the visitor: If you change your mind, you only need to say the word. I am as easy to find as P.A.M.

If he was truly so easy to find, all she needed to do was find the nearest modern city—anywhere with modern technology. The nearest kiosk would do just as good. She could be back in twenty-four hours at the earliest. With that encouraging thought in mind, she took a deep breath and strode into the mouth of the tunnel.

To Una’s relief, Sliver’s glassy dome of a forehead acted like a flashlight in the dark. The tunnel, though vast and damp, lit with a calm magenta aura emanating from Sliver. The tracks upon the tunnel were dirty and worn with years of use. Every little noise echoed across the ceiling and walls. The scuttle of a Joltik was a common occurance and little voices chirping. Like before, they did not say more than one word at a time. She couldn't help but whimper every now and then as she accidentally bumped into or nearly stepped on several of the little critters, causing them to shriek and scatter. She didn't dare speak, still haunted by the feeling that something more than Joltiks lurked within the network.

It felt like hours had passed before finally reaching a crossroads. The one tunnel split into two, leaving the girl and her Purrloin to pause in their tracks. 

Una stared blankly for a moment before asking Sliver nervously, “Uh, do you remember where these lead to— Sliver? What’s wrong?”

Sliver’s back was suddenly arched, letting out a threatening hiss. His eyes were fixed on the right most tunnel, yet as Una squinted ahead, she could not see anything past the darkness. 

Just as she took a few steps back, she heard something scuttle from the tunnel ahead. Even now, she could tell it was something much, much bigger than a Joltik. Her breath felt squeezed out of her from anxiety, not wanting to call out in case it was something dangerous. The heavy sound of pawsteps only seemed to grow closer, pebbles crunching under the creature’s feet.

“Miss Una.” 

She yelped at the sound of her own name. The voice was barely louder than a whisper, and as she swiveled to the other tunnel, she saw what she recognized as glowing purple eyes piercing through the dark. The eyes darted from her to the tunnel on the right before rasping in a vaguely familiar tone, “Follow me, lest you want to meet the reception party.”

Without thinking, she immediately scooped up Sliver and raced after the creature with purple eyes, barely dipping into the other tunnel before a low, horrifying groan entered the chamber. Tears began to stream down her face as her heart threatened to burst once more, and her breathing exploded out of her. She could hear their guide strutting swiftly a few paces ahead, occasionally looking back with the purple eyes to see if she was still there. It was just out of Sliver’s light, continuing to cloak him in shadows. 

After a few minutes, the guide slowed down while Una tried to collect herself again. After a moment of struggling, she managed to whisper with a high-pitched voice, “What was that? Who are you?”

There was a pause, and the low voice answered, “I see Mister Emmet failed to inform you of the creatures that patrol these tunnels. Figures.”

The glowing eyes turned a full circle to stare at Una, even as the creature continued to walk forward. “That was the guardian of these tunnels— or one of them. You won't see them unless you get too close to the rest of the civilization. I assure you though, they are more concerned keeping citizens in rather than keeping you out.”

Una hesitated for a moment before breathing out, “You're what Emmet was talking to, aren't you?”

“That confirms each of our own theories, does it not? I was right to think you would not keep your nose out of other people’s business.”

Una frowned. “Aren’t you the one who mind-controlled Liepard and minded into our own business?”

To her surprise, a small raspy chuckle seemed to escape from the creature. “If only it was that simple. Besides, Mister Emmet can hardly complain since I am the one who granted him salvation… as well as yours.”

A shiver ran up her spine at this remark. There was a slight edge to its voice, almost like a threat. However, the pawsteps of the creature changed, as if it had a slight spring to its step. Finally it remarked calmly, “How rude of me. My name is Futile. No need to introduce yourself, I know more about you than you even do. I assume that is why you are here. I figured it was easier to come to you.”

Futile’s tone differed greatly from when he spoke with Emmet. It had been more stern and authoritative, but now it seemed more relaxed, almost gleeful. It left an unnerving impression on her gut.

“I just want to hear what you have to say,” Una insisted firmly, attempting to straighten herself up like Emmet had, establishing some control over the situation. “I want the truth, and then I'm going back home.”

Futile paused, even stopping in his tracks. For the first time, Una could finally glimpse the body. In Sliver’s light, she could see a tall, lanky rodent-like Pokémon. Its surface was smooth with metal with an old fashioned microphone for a tail. It had antennas for whiskers.and even now she could see a glint of camera lens protruding from its chest and forehead. A Neo Watchog.

Una recoiled at the sight of it, taking a few steps back. 

“I see,” he growled at last before moving forward again. “And what is it you are hoping to find?” 

She hesitated. “Closure, I hope. I… I want to know why they did it.”

Futile nodded, his tail wobbling back and forth. “I process trillions of information and commands every day. I could tell where any commoner is at any given place in Unova. Yet despite my power, I am not a Jirachi.”

Una ignored the stab of disappointment. “What’s that supposed to mean?” 

“It means I alone cannot give you the closure you desire. No, the road to closure is a long one and it only begins with me. However, I believe we can help each other.”

Una stopped in her tracks. “I just want to know the truth. You know who I am and where I came from. Like my family—do you know what happened to them?”

Futile fell silent for a moment. “I know you were brought in alone. Part of the reason you fascinate me so much is because almost everything about you was kept off the record.”

“Then how did you know about my hearing?”

The Watchog turned its beady eyes towards her as if surveying her face. It squinted slightly. “Many records were kept out of my reach while I was under the iron paw of P.A.M. Yet there was some more basic, classified knowledge still accessible to me— like history and mythology. P.A.M worked hard to scrub the data banks clean of certain history. But one of the few I’ve managed to restore was a legend of children in the wilderness gifted with the ability to speak with tongues of man and Pokémon. The first child recorded was more than a hundred and fifty years ago, and the second appeared more than half a century ago. Both children grew up to be chosen as the hero of one of Unova’s great protectors. The nail in the coffin is that these children were recognized by their abnormally green hair.”

Futile’s gaze bored into hers. “I cannot fathom any other reason a green-haired little girl would be placed among dissidents and outlaws, other than that she made her captives afraid.”

A sensation of an ice pick struck Una’s heart at Futile’s last words. She looked down at her own tangled green hair escaping from under her cap. Her mouth felt like a desert, but Futile saved her from responding. 

“You do not understand the dire situation this region is experiencing or the horrible acts that happened to bring Unova to this point,” Futile rasped, one of its legs kicking out in frustration. “The Black and White Dragons vanished shortly before you appeared in that prison. The White Dragon fled the Champion’s side a mere few days before you came under custody. I firmly believe that the League disposed of the dragons since neither would have allowed Unova to flourish under a government built on extreme censorship and isolation. Unfortunately, the dragons are the only ones who could possibly save this region, and you are my only hope of finding them.”

Without warning, Futile’s head turned a full circle around its body to stare at Una. “I stand by what I told Mister Emmet,” it continued harshly.  “You cannot hide forever. Sooner or later, either that beast back there or the Champion himself is finally going to realize his greatest threat is living just outside these tunnels. They will come, and everything you have left will be taken away from you. I want to help avoid as much damage as possible—prepare you for the worst.”

Una could see Futile was proving to be less of an aid than she hoped. On the contrary, she felt more fearful than before. She could tell Futile was holding back as well, dodging around certain details. Una hesitated before finally asking the question burning on her tongue. “Why do you even care? What do you get out of it?”

While the Watchog’s metallic expression remained stoic and consistent  for most of the discussion, its glowing purple pupils seemed to shrink against the cold blacks of its eyes. “I am looking for my own closure. My current position prevents me from attaining it alone. And P.A.M…”

For the first time, Futile shuddered, sending chills down Una’s own body. He then finished quickly, “I need another—a human, someone that actually strikes some fear into our enemies.”

It turned to face Una, scanning her expression. “I do not expect you to trust me, but I think we can both help each other. If we put both our abilities and skill sets together, we could do a lot of good— not just for ourselves, but for the other citizens as well. What do you say?”

“No,” Una replied without much thought, but saying it as firmly as possible. “I got what I needed now. Em wouldn't want—”

“You ran away regardless of what he wanted. You only care about what he wants when it benefits you.”

She flinched at the observation. However, she stood her ground and snapped, “I'm going back to him! I just wanted to hear you out because Emmet can’t help as much as he thinks. Now that I’ve heard you, I'm going—”

But just as she turned to go back down the tunnel, the Watchog leapt in front of her, blocking her path. She stumbled backwards while Sliver hissed threateningly from her arms. 

“I think you forgot, Miss Una,” Futile hissed in a low, threatening tone. “I am the only one keeping you alive in these tunnels. I am the one protecting you and your little covey, I am the one shielding you from the League right now! The least you could do is give a little back, for the seven years of hell I experienced for you!”

The Watchog stamped its foot while its voice echoed all around the tunnel. Una winced as she heard the distant whispers of Joltiks reach a pitch again. Even in the quick glance towards her feet, Joltiks began crawling and jumping past her and Futile.

Run, run, run—

Unfortunately, Futile proved to be the more pressing threat. It gnashed its fangs and hissed, “If you will not help me with your consent, you will do it without.”

The Watchog’s eyes suddenly shifted from purple to white right as it lunged at her, but Una managed to dodge to the side before bolting further down the tunnel. She did not dare look back until she heard the stride of the heavy footsteps halt. But when she did steal a glance, she swore she saw the glow of the Watchog watching her from a distance. Perhaps she imagined in the panic, but she thought she caught a glimpse of a figure with a glowing red aura towering over it. 

An electronic screech stalked after Una, but the terror spiking through her heart only pushed her to run faster in the dark. The only light once again came from Sliver’s tail tip and forehead, which she now pushed against her jacket in order to avoid other fateful encounters. However, sometimes she swore she saw a bluish life farther down the tunnel, but she could not dodge out of its path. Not when doubling back meant getting past the first beast. There was no time for regret, disappointment, or even grief— not when she needed to outrun the beasts of the tunnels, even if it meant she couldn't turn back home.

Chapter Text

Una did not know how much time had passed, so she found herself nearly blinded by a face full of sunlight as she managed to push open the latch to the surface. She coughed as some of the dust settled onto her face, but managed to push herself up and out of the dreadful subway. She heard a squeak of surprise and the sound of a dozen footsteps as a Pokémon scattering back into brush. She caught a glimpse of wild Falinks trampling away from the sudden shuffling. She did not pay it much mind and instead turned her attention to her own Pokémon. Sliver had clung onto her shoulder, but now slipped off and landed on the drooping grass while brushing against its trainer.

“Stupid, stupid, stupid…” Una repeated to herself harshly while wiping dust and grime from her face. “This was so stupid…”

She looked down at Sliver. “What are we supposed to do now? We’re stranded in the middle of nowhere! I don’t even know where we are. How do we get home from here?”

She winced as guilt suddenly gnawed at her stomach. Crossing her arms around her chest, she added, “If he wants me home…”

But Sliver shook its head and meowed sharply at the comment. Una shrank back a little at the correction. Although Sliver remained the only Pokémon she could not talk to directly, she understood his retort perfectly. 

“I know, you're right,” Una assured Sliver with a pat. “He wouldn't think that… I just hope he’ll be okay until I get back. I just wish…” 

She trailed off, now watching the Falinks stomping away while one squeaky voice commanded the troop, Right, left, right, left—! 

She squinted at the Pokémon for a minute. It clicked and she scrambled to her feet, speaking excitedly, “Wait, if that's a Falinks, we must have ended up east! They only live near the east coast, and if I'm right, we’re close to Straiton City again! Or, at least I hope that's right… I didn't think we were gone that long.” 

Typically such a journey would take several hours to complete by handcar, but by foot… such a trip was nearly impossible to do in one night. However, that was hardly the strangest thing to happen within the tunnels, and at this point Una was convinced that nothing good or natural resided within its system. She gave one last look to the overgrown latch sticking ajar from the ground, shivers running up her spine at the thought of Futile’s eerie Watchog vessel and the glowing beast. Surely it was better to find the nearest settlement than to return to the lawless subway below.

They found themselves in a wooded area that seemed vaguely familiar. Most of the grass was sickly green and dry, crunching under her quick stride. Other than the one Falinks, they spied no other Pokémon other than the distant coos of Pidoves and Rookidees.

Yet they quickly found another obstacle in their path. Upon finding the main route road and glimpsing the grand white city walls over the dwindling trees, a new anxiety came to Una’s mind. Emmet and Fajra knew the tunnels well enough to exit directly into the cities in order to avoid the security at the gates. Regardless if the traveler was a resident or not, it was no simple matter getting within the grander cities. They were always hunting for outlaws or illegal merchandise. During one of her first visits outside of Anville Ruins, Una saw first hand the strictness with which the gates were kept shut. She remembered hiding behind Emmet when walking past the gates, witnessing the spectacle of flagged intruders being restrained and marched away.

“We don’t need to worry about that happening.” Emmet had assured her, although she remembered his smile had become tight and he fell into worried silence for the rest of the day. 

Her heart pounded a little harder. Futile’s eerie recordings still lurked in the back of her mind. She did not own any sort of identification, not even a fake one. Just one scan from P.A.M and alarms would undoubtedly go off. 

Before her fears could consume her, the crunch of footsteps on the dirt path and dog-like panting reached her ears. Her heart leapt a little with hope, and she turned to see the fellow traveler. A boy—or at least someone she thought was her age based on his similar height—sauntered down the path while a metallic dog-like Pokémon bounded ahead of him. The boy’s face was barely visibly behind the dark sunglasses, panel hat, and overly large hoodie collar. However, the aura of secrecy was quite telling.

She forced on her sweetest expression as he came to pass, and called, “‘Scuse me, could I—“

But the boy did not even let her finish as he remarked in the iciest tone, “I don’t have money and I don’t give out autographs to random low lives.” 

He walked past her without a second look or slowing down. Not even the Neo Lilipup slowed as it bounced after its trainer. Una froze, completely dumbfounded by the abrupt insult. However, she quickly recovered and darted after him, continuing onward in veiled manipulation, “Great, that makes two of us. I really hate to bother you, but I may have snuck out of the city and I just realized I forgot my trainer I.D at home. I know we just met, but would you pleaaaase vouch for me? I don’t want my family to get in trouble for—”

The boy huffed before she even finished, “Just give the guards your name, they’ll see if you belong there and let you in. It’s really not that hard to grasp.”

He quickened his pace, making it clear he wanted nothing more to do with her. Una hesitated before pressing on, dropping the sweetened act and relenting, “Okay fine, I don’t actually have a trainer I.D for this area!”

She darted in front of him, walking backwards so he could better see her desperation. “Look, my dad is sick and I went out looking for herbs, but I got led off the trail by an aggressive Pokémon and now I don’t know how to get home. I need to get into the city to call my aunt so she can come get me. Please, I’m begging you. My dad really needs my help and I’m worried what will happen to him if I’m gone too long.”

The boy stopped in his tracks at last, staring her down with a critical glare. Despite his frown, something about his narrow gaze seemed to soften a little at the story. He glanced down at his Neo Lilipup, which was sniffing a wary Sliver rather aggressively. 

“Fine,” the boy answered curtly. “But if it turns out you’re lying, you better believe I’ll rat you out myself. Although, maybe that’s too harsh. Based on such a sob story, I don’t think you’re actually capable of more than mischief and delinquent stupidity.”

Una bit her lip, not wanting to bite the hand letting her into the city. However, her tongue decided faster than her brain as she couldn’t help but retort, “At least I look like I’m capable of more than withstanding the slightest breeze or a single ray of sun.”

The boy scoffed but refused to reply. She noticed his fists were clenched in the pockets of his oversized hoodie, signifying he was definitely considering saying more. As they reached the gates, there were several armored guards lingering by the grand doors. Now that Una thought about it, she had never been so close to the glistening white armor. She could see the occasional glowing pulse of red and blue electricity pulsing between the cracks. Although it closely resembled normal police armor she’d see on occasion, there was something almost fastasical or majestic about the way parts of the plates seemed to resemble flames. 

Una moved a little behind the boy, hoping to give herself more of an advantage if she needed to flee. Yet what she did not expect was for the guards’ expressions to falter at the sight of her temporary companion. They all straightened up and one of them announced, “Young Master Crosse! Did you travel by foot? We were informed your father provided—”

“I have no desire to travel by any other means than foot,” the boy, Crosse, remarked coolly. “If all other participants are to travel by foot, I don’t see why I should be treated any differently. So please, if you see my father, please tell him I wish to be treated like every other participant.”

The guards exchanged nervous looks but did not protest. As he swiftly held out his trainer I.D, Crosse added in a similarly bored tone, “However, I’m temporarily extending my immunity to Miss, ah…”

Before Una could answer, one of the guards looked up from his tablet and remarked, “Ah, Miss Fortuna, correct? We have you on the list of Gym Challenge participants as well. Your I.D has been ready for pickup at the Pokémon Center.”

Una stared at the man, glancing at Crosse’s surprised expression before stammering nervously, “Um, sir, that can’t be right. I never signed up for the Gym Challenge. I just came for family—“

But the guard flipped around the tablet to show her own face staring back at her. It was definitely her, but she had never seen it in her life. Almost everything on the document was true, from her age to Sliver being her only registered Pokémon. But what struck her was the name. Her name was not listed as Una, but Fortuna N. Harmony. 

“Is this not you in the photo?” The guard asked, tapping the screen.

“That’s… that’s me, but I didn’t sign up! This is a misunderstanding, you have to believe me!”

Yet there was no way she could prove her innocence when even her real identity would set off alarms. It didn’t seem like the guards knew what to do either as he watched with some confusion and awkwardness. Instead the guard merely suggested, “This would be something to ask your parents then, Miss. People don’t end up on the Gym Challenge list by accident. It’s a long process to enter the Challenge, and it’s says here you completed all the pre-challenge tasks.”

”I… I don’t remember doing any of that. I didn’t plan to even come here today. I’m sure this is a mistake though.”

The guard paused before humoring in a calm but insistent tone, “We’ll send your remark to the Pokémon Center and they can verify your status in the Challenge. Otherwise I would contact your parents or legal guardians. There is nothing more we can do on this matter.” 

He then handed both Crosse and Una a flyer and explained, “These are the next steps for the challenge. Miss Fortuna, I would suggest going to the Pokémon Center if you have any further questions. The P.A.M system is a helpful resource as well.”

Without any further elaboration, the guard once again turned to Crosse and requested with reverence, “Master Crosse, perhaps you’d like to reach out to your father just to be sure he’s informed…”

Una was quickly forgotten in the minds of those around her, leaving her confused as she stared down at the smiling Minccino on the flyer. Her hands shook and scrunched the page in her hands. 

If you will not help me with your consent, you will do it without.

The words haunted the corners of her mind before Sliver’s small squeak broke her thoughts free. The gates were creaking open to grant them access to New Straiton City within. She glanced briefly at Crosse, who was arguing with the guards while his Neo Lilipup watched Sliver and her with a wagging tail. She bit her lip before tearing off into the city without another word, clutching the flyer to her chest. Her stomach was twisted into knots, fighting back more tears and ragged anxious breaths, now tracing a familiar path to the Pokémon Center. For once, she was going to follow the guard’s advice and it remained the one sole objective at the front of her mind.

Chapter Text

“Please, please, pick up.” Una whispered in a panic to herself, hunched over the Pokémon Center’s communication computer so she was the only one to see the screen. She tapped her foot nervously while she felt Sliver pace between her legs. She knew contacting home would be a stretch on such a device and a high risk to whoever received the call. However, she needed someone in her life to speak reason at this time.

She heard a click from the headset and the screen pulled up a ‘no camera’ notification. A rough woman’s voice snapped on the other side, “Drop this number, or I swear I will take this phone and—“

“Fajra!” Una gasped, and the wave of relief that crashed over her caused her to burst into tears. “F-Fajra, I need help, really bad…”

There was a pause of stunned silence before Fajra spoke again, this time her voice full of worry, “Kiddo? What are you doing at a Pokémon Center? Where’s Em?”

“Fajra, I… I screwed up, big time…”

“Okay, calm down, tell me carefully. Don’t tell me more than you need to.”

Una knew she meant to reference the tracking on the computers. She told her as much as she could, although she left out the intimate details of what she learned from Futile. She explained her search for Futile, then how he turned on her and attacked. How she somehow managed to travel across the region overnight, and finally, the discovery at the gates. When she finished, Fajra remained quiet before remarking seriously, “You haven’t been in contact with this thing since the tunnels, right?”

“No.”

“Okay, well if you see it again, keep away. This is clearly something that shouldn’t be messed with under any circumstances. I’m going to contact Em so he knows you’re okay, and he can fill me in on the missing pieces. I’ll come as soon as I can.”

“But what do I do about the Gym Tournament?” Una pressed, her voice barely louder than a whisper. 

Fajra paused again before answering in the softest voice she heard her use, “Kiddo, you’re going to have to trust me and stick this out. You need to stay and play the song and dance this thing wants.”

“But—“

“Una, sugar, I need you to listen to me,” Fajra pushed sternly. “Lemme tell you a little something: I was a participant before. I was only a lil’ older than you. No one withdraws from the competition, you hear me? You are in it to win or you leave in disgrace and under a lot of questions. There’s a lot of preparation and investment that goes into the tournament, so this is not a small thing you can just leave whenever the going gets tough. When you sign up, you are signing a lot of documents including confidentiality agreements. Besides, that thing that signed you up clearly knows more about us than we know about ourselves. It’s better to appease it until we find another way out. This thing is clearly dangerous and has a bone to pick. You understand?”

“So you’re just going to leave me—“

“Of course not, don’ even think that way. You’re not alone, sugar, we’re in this mess with you. But I need you to play solo until I get there. The first gym fights begin…”

There was a pause before Fajra continued, “Well look at that, it opens this week. So listen to me carefully, former participant to beginner: you need to start training and preparing now. You're a good fighter, but keep in mind that all the Gym Leaders used to be participants too. They are all trainers who managed to go toe to toe with the Champion at the end of each of their respective tournaments. Heck, I think some of them were gym leaders back during my time too. You’ll need to think fast on your feet and outside the box. I know you can do that.”

Una nodded to herself before daring to ask, “If you’ve done the tournament before, what happened? Did you get far?”

A sticky silence followed, making it clear Fajra did not want to divulge anymore. “I gotta go now, but I promise everything will be okay. I’ll come find you as soon as I’m able. I’m going to call Em now and tell him you’re okay.”

“Can you tell him I’m sorry?” Una blurted out. “I… I don’t know if I’ll see or talk to him again for a while, and I need him to know...”

“I understand. I’ll tell him. Try to keep your calls scarce, but if it's an emergency, I can take the heat. You got this, kiddo.”

The call disconnected with a click, leaving Una in silence. She faltered as she hung up the headset only to then place her face into her hands. Sliver meowed from next to her, but her head filled with the buzzing of adrenaline. She hoped Fajra would provide more answers or a way out of the nightmare. She understood the limitations they had to face when speaking over a Pokémon Center’s communications line as the risk of tapped lines was significantly high. But now she was on her own in a big city with no Emmet or Fajra to help her.

“Why the long face, friend?”

Una yelped and looked around to see who had spoken, but realized no one was in her direct vicinity. When she turned, she realized the screen had become bright blue and the cartoonish face of a Minccino pressed against the screen. She immediately pulled her hat tighter over her head and squeaked, “It’s you!”

“It is I, your friendly Pokémon Assistant and Moderator!” P.A.M chimed, giggling as it did a little flip that caused its electric blue tuft of fur to bounce. “Why so glum? Is it nerves? Everyone has been there, Fortuna, it is nothing to be embarrassed about.”

“Oh, ah—“ Una began, forgetting that she now had a new name. “I— you know my name…”

“I know everyone’s name!” P.A.M corrected with a grin. “A new user, I am sure. I am equipped with every new Gym Tournament participant's registration information and will add more as I get to know each one. It is my job to prepare participants for the main event! I give notifications of news, battle, traffic, untimely disqualifications and/or deaths, and more updates! Although, I see you have not registered for our newsletter via EX-Transciever.”

“I, uh, don’t have one—“

P.A.M attempted another virtual backflip within the blue screen void and remarked, “Well why didn’t you say so? I am sure we can find a sponsor who can donate for such a device. Every trainer should have one. Anyway~”

He folded his chubby arms as if leaning over an invisible table to stare down Una. “Tell me Trainer Fortuna, is there anything I can help you with today? Further explanations, next steps, requesting a battle time at New Straiton Gym? So much to do with so little time!” 

Although her distrust still lingered, Una couldn’t help but notice how relaxed P.A.M appeared to be. As far as she could tell, this tiny little sprite was not aware who she was, or at least was only engaging her based off whatever Futile fed the system. With that, she dared to question, “Well, I guess I’m a little confused on how the tournament works. Like I know how everyone travels around and fights gyms, but what does it lead up to? What do you win?”

“Oh, an excellent question!” P.A.M began, and with a snap of his small fingers came a visual of the New Unova region. “This year we have hundreds of trainers, young and old, who take up the New Unova Gym Tournament. For the most part, trainers must focus on beating the Gym Leaders and collecting the eight New Unova gym badges. There is a specified route and amount of time that trainers must complete or risk being disqualified. Trainers who collect all the required gym badges within the required time will finish the journey in Lacunosa City. The remaining trainers face off against each other in a final tournament. The winner will then attempt to compete against the Elite Four and Champion Harlan in one attempt. No one has successfully completed the final lap of the challenge yet, so most trainers simply aim to be the best trainer among that year’s participants. The Gym Tournament finalist earns 500,000 credits.”

“What if someone were to beat the Champion?”

“If someone were to break the streak, the Champion would pass their title to the finalist.”

“So would that mean the Champion would stop being Champion if he ever did lose?”

But P.A.M pulled up the visuals on the screen as if it were a projector screen and remarked over her question, “Oh no, silly, it’s just a title. A position of power like Champion cannot be decided by one battle. Especially when most participants are just children, like you! Anyways, enough hypotheticals. Anything else I can help with?”

The P.A.M smiled in an eerie grin. Not wanting him to get suspicious, Una cleared her throat and pressed, “Uh, what about the New Straiton Gym? I don’t know anything about it. How do I prepare?”

“Ah great question! New Straiton City Gym has changed quite a bit since our last Tournament.” 

A map of New Straiton City appeared on screen as P.A.M gestured to a repeatedly glowing spot toward the center of the screen. “New Straiton Gym is currently set within the Super PokéMart at the center of the city. The local gym leader is the newest addition to the League’s lineup and is our current Normal Type specialist. Once you make an appointment for your challenge, you will arrive on location and have an hour to complete the leader’s gym mission. This is a task that each gym leader assigns their challengers to complete before they can be faced in battle. For this gym, participants are required to bring no more or less than two Pokémon, so be sure to pick your Pokémon wisely.”

“And… what happens if someone loses the battle?”

“Then she’s out of the game!” P.A.M answered brightly, thumbing his paw as if signaling someone out. “Process of elimination at its finest, so best prepare well! Any other questions?” 

Una was still trying to wrap her head around the dump of information, but the weight of this tournament seemed to lift slightly. However she quickly recovered and remarked to P.A.M, “Uh, no, I’m good now… thanks.”

P.A.M bowed and squeaked, “Always happy to be of assistance, Fortuna! I best be off, but just remember: when in doubt, best to shout!” 

The little Minccino blipped off the screen, leaving the swirling P.A.M and Pokémon Center emblem behind. Assured that he was gone, Una immediately scrambled away from the communications computer while scooping up Sliver at her feet. She was not entirely convinced that P.A.M did not know she was out of her element. His quick notice of her distress made her fear that perhaps he had been listening to her and Fajra’s conversation with more awareness. However, she knew Fajra was more than capable of dodging P.A.M and would take every precaution possible. It left her to worry about the most pressing concern. Fortunately, a plan was already brewing in the forefront of her mind.

When Sliver let out a mrrrow of protest at the sudden movement, Una patted his head and insisted while rushing through the crowded Pokémon Center, “No napping right now, we’re going to catch another Pokémon!”

Unfortunately, this was easier said than done. Despite the gloomy clouds hiding the sun, the few fractured rays that came down signified it was getting quite late in the afternoon. A fire of determination was now burning within Una now that she had a better idea of what laid ahead. Whether he knew it or not, P.A.M may have provided her the loophole needed to claw out of the mess she found herself in. She simply had to take one track at a time.